What to do in case of acute breathlessness?

Shortness of breath is a frightening and potentially serious symptom. Acute breathlessness often occurs suddenly and can be triggered by a variety of causes. Possible triggers of acute breathlessness include overexertion, stress and anxiety, but also allergic reactions, diseases such as long Covid, bronchial asthma and diseases of the cardiovascular system.

Acute shortness of breath requires immediate action. Immediate measures for respiratory distress include

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• ‍Keep calm: Keeping calm is essential in the event of breathlessness. This is because panic reactions trigger stress, which can further exacerbate breathlessness.
• ‍Adopt a relaxed, comfortable posture: Postures such as the coachman's seat can relieve the respiratory muscles, which alleviates breathlessness. To sit in the coachman's seat, bend your upper body forwards and rest your elbows on your thighs. Alternative postures are the Pasha pose, wall pose or goalkeeper pose.

• ‍Ensure fresh air supply: If possible, open the windows or move to a well-ventilated area.
• ‍Dial the emergency number: In the event of severe symptoms or signs such as bluish lips, chest pain or unconsciousness, call the emergency number (112) immediately.
  As a general rule, the emergency number should always be dialled if the situation cannot be assessed, if there is any doubt about the person's state of health or if there is even a danger to life.
• Breathing exercises: In the case of known triggers, breathing exercises can help to alleviate breathlessness. For example, the lip brake promotes conscious, controlled exhalation and thus relieves the airways.
• Use medication: People with known conditions such as asthma or COPD should use their emergency medication (e.g. inhalers) as soon as possible.